A nurse is preparing to assess the bone mineral density of a client suspected to have osteoporosis.
Which diagnostic test should the nurse anticipate using for this assessment?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Computed tomography (CT) scan.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
Bone biopsy.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale:
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the diagnostic test of choice for assessing bone mineral density and diagnosing osteoporosis.
DXA scans provide precise measurements of bone density, typically at the hip and spine, and are used to evaluate the risk of fractures and monitor treatment efficacy.
Choice A rationale:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not the primary diagnostic test for osteoporosis.
While MRI can provide detailed images of soft tissues, it is not as effective as DXA in measuring bone density, which is crucial in osteoporosis diagnosis and management.
Choice B rationale:
Computed tomography (CT) scans are not typically used as the first-line diagnostic test for osteoporosis.
CT scans provide detailed images of bones and tissues but involve a higher radiation dose than DXA scans.
DXA remains the preferred choice for assessing bone mineral density.
Choice D rationale:
Bone biopsy is not a standard diagnostic test for osteoporosis.
Bone biopsies are invasive procedures reserved for specific situations, such as diagnosing other bone disorders or investigating unusual bone lesions.
DXA is a non-invasive and more commonly used method for assessing bone density in osteoporosis.
Questions
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"You should avoid calcium-rich foods to prevent further bone loss." This statement is incorrect and not appropriate guidance for a patient with osteoporosis.
Calcium is essential for maintaining bone health, and avoiding calcium-rich foods can exacerbate bone loss.
Osteoporosis patients need an adequate intake of calcium to support their bone density.
Choice B rationale:
"It's important to maintain a diet low in vitamin D to manage your condition." This statement is also incorrect.
Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.
Patients with osteoporosis should not maintain a low vitamin D diet but should ensure they have sufficient vitamin D intake, either through diet, supplements, or sunlight exposure.
Choice C rationale:
"You should focus on a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D." This statement is the correct answer.
Osteoporosis patients should indeed focus on a balanced diet rich in both calcium and vitamin D.
Calcium is needed for bone strength, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium effectively.
A balanced diet with these nutrients is essential for managing osteoporosis.
Choice D rationale:
"A diet high in sugar and processed foods is ideal for managing osteoporosis." This statement is entirely incorrect.
A diet high in sugar and processed foods can be detrimental to bone health and overall well-being.
Such a diet can lead to inflammation and negatively impact bone density.
It is not advisable for managing osteoporosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
Kyphosis is the medical term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine that the nurse observes in this client.
Kyphosis results in a forward rounding of the back and is often seen in older adults with osteoporosis.
When osteoporosis weakens the vertebrae, they become more prone to compression fractures, leading to the characteristic hunched posture of kyphosis.
Choice A rationale:
Scoliosis is not the correct term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine observed in this client.
Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine, not a forward rounding of the back.
Choice B rationale:
Lordosis is also not the correct term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine observed in this client.
Lordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the spine, typically in the lumbar (lower back) region, creating a swayback appearance.
Choice D rationale:
Osteoarthritis is unrelated to the observed spinal curvature.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects joints, not the overall curvature of the spine.
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